10. A user reports that their computer is running slowly after installing a new application. Which of the following should the technician do first?

Answer: A

Explanation:

Uninstall the application.

To address the issue of the computer running slowly after the installation of a new application, the technician should first uninstall the application. This step directly targets the potential cause of the performance issue.

A) Uninstall the application.

This option is correct as it directly addresses the user's concern about the computer's slow performance following the installation of the new application. Uninstalling the application can quickly determine if it is indeed the source of the problem, allowing the technician to resolve the issue effectively.

B) Run a disk cleanup.

While running a disk cleanup can help improve system performance by removing unnecessary files, it does not specifically address the problem caused by the newly installed application. This option may be beneficial later but is not the immediate priority.

C) Increase virtual memory.

Increasing virtual memory may alleviate performance issues in some cases, but it does not directly resolve the potential conflicts or resource demands introduced by the new application. This approach is more of a workaround than a solution to the reported issue.

D) Update the operating system.

Updating the operating system can enhance overall system stability and performance, but it is not a direct response to the slow performance reported after installing a specific application. Therefore, it is not the most appropriate first step.

Conclusion

Uninstalling the application is the most effective first step to diagnose and potentially resolve the performance issue experienced by the user. Other options may offer longer-term solutions or improvements, but they do not directly address the immediate concern linked to the new installation. Thus, A is the definitive correct response.